Hawaiian Mythology and Religion
Best Book on Hawaiian Mythology and Religion
The premier book on Hawaiian mythology written in 1940, but reads like it was written today. If you are planning to visit Hawaii, you should learn about the people of Hawaii and this book tells you a lot about their ancient culture and religion.
Additional Books on Hawaiian Mythology and Religion
Our picks of books to learn more about Hawaiian legends, mythology and religion. We have linked directly to our e-commerce partner mySimon.com where you can get more details about each book and order the book directly should you choose to do so.
The Kumulipo
The Kumulipo is the sacred creation chant of the Hawaiian People. It contains over 2000 lines and traces the history of the Hawaiian people from the beginnings of time.
'Aumakua
Betty Fullard-Leo explains how eons before the missionaries introduced their concept of one God to Hawai'i in 1820, Polynesians had an intricate nature-oriented belief system. Find out more about this ancient religion.
Gods and Goddesses of Hawaii
An excellent index of the major Gods and Goddesses of the Hawaiian myths and legends.
Hawaiian Gods
An excellent introduction and overview of the Gods and Goddesses of ancient Hawaii.
Hawaiian Moon Calendar
Ancient Hawaiians used a calendar based upon the moon to plan their fishing and farming.
In the Beginning - Hawaiian Gods
Betty Fullard-Leo looks at the major gods worshiped by the ancient Hawaiians.
The Legend of Kamapua'a
As retold by Sophia Schweitzer in Coffee Times.
The Legend of Kauila at Punalu'u
The legend of the green sea turtles and the black sand beach of Punalu'u on the Big Island of Hawaii.
Legends of Hilo
Lance Tominaga examines several of the legends associated with Hilo, on the Big Island of Hawaii, home to the annual Merrie Monarch Hula Festival.
Myths and Folklores from Maui Cheetah
Four tales: Kama Pua'a - The Pig Child, Poisionous Limu, Birth of Iao Needle and the Story of Maui.
Pele - Goddess of Fire
Betty Fullard-Leo tells of the legend of Pele, described as "She-Who-Shapes-The-Sacred-Land" in ancient Hawaiian chants.
The Pleiades Rise
Sophia Schweitzer examines why the rising of this constellation marked the beginning of the annual Makahiki Festivals throughout Hawaii.
Sanctuaries of Hawaii
Sophia Schweitzer looks at the pu'uhonua (places of refuge), literally meaning 'hill of earth, where a criminal could find forgiveness, escaping death for the kapu he had broken, where a warrior could find healing and respite, where women, children and elderly people could find a safe haven from the battles outside.
The Three Mehehune of Ainahou
Hawaiian storyteller, Charlie Maxwell's bedtime story relates the tale about three Menehune (little people), that lived in a forest called Ainahou.